YOUTH IN THE FRIENDS PROGRAM FACE CONSIDERABLE CHALLENGES, INCLUDING PLACEMENT IN THE FOSTER CARE SYSTEM, UNDER-RESOURCED NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOLS, HOMELESSNESS, HUNGER, AND DISPARITIES IN ACCESS TO AND QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE. DESPITE THESE BARRIERS, PROGRAM YOUTH ENTER ADULTHOOD WITH STRONG FOUNDATIONS FOR CONTINUING ACHIEVEMENT: 83% GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL OR EARN A GED, 93% AVOID THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM, AND 98% AVOID TEEN PARENTING.
